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MANCHESTER
BOARD OF EDUCATION
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2004 |
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Executive Session - 6:00 p.m. - Lincoln Center - Pending Litigation 7:30
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A. OPENING PRESENT: Edwards, Hackett, Holmes, Huyler, Lok, O'Neill, Rizzo, Thresher ABSENT: Robinson ALSO ABSENT:
None Mrs. Hackett led the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes
of August 23, 2004 MOTION: Rizzo/Edwards s.v. The Board of Education accepts the minutes of August 23, 2004. (8/0/0) B. PUBLIC
COMMENTS 2. Stephanie Knybel, 138 Bobby Lane She stated that at the last Board of Education meeting, she asked about the CMT scores. CMT are approaching on September 15, and she has not received last year's test results yet. She understands the problem with the testing, but she doesn't understand the reason why the results have not been given. Additionally, she clarified that although she is the PTA President of Bennet Middle School, her opinions and comments are based on being a resident and parent first. As President, she will give her members both sides of the issue and will not have them make a stand as to the PTA being for or against whatever the question may be. She also stated that she would like to know what is happening with the Superintendent's search. She believes it should be made public at this point. Dr. Mistretta commented that the CMT profiles were sent out two weeks ago for parents. She stated that she would check on why some families have not received them yet. 3. Tom Stringfellow, 183 Hillstown Road. He spoke about a documentary on the History Channel regarding the War of 1812. He commented that September 12 is National Grandparent's Day. He stated there is a DEA exhibit in a New York museum that deals with drug trafficking and terror. Additionally, he reported the three-year anniversary of 9/11. He stated that September 15 through October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month. He recommended two books about the Alamo, The Alamo 1836 by Stephen Stardin, and The Mexican War 1846-1848. He recommended the back to school issue of Attitudes Magazine who those with special needs children. There is also an educational program sponsored by WGBH Springfield Channel 57 called Step Up Springfield. C. STUDENT
REPRESENTATIVE'S REPORT Justin Smith read an editorial by a student that was printed in the Journal Inquirer. The title of the article was "No Elbow Room at MHS" and referred to the space issues the students feel. It stated that during lunch, some students are forced to stand because there is not enough room. He stated that students are allowed to go onto the patio, but are not allowed to eat there. He stated the he and Devorah put together a biographical and contact information sheet for themselves to the Board. It also includes their email addresses if the Board wants to contact them. Devorah stated that they were available to answer questions or survey the students for the Board. She stated that the sheets contained biographical information so that the Board would know what connections they have within the school. They read the biographical information to the Board. She stated that CAPT results would be released soon. The welcome back dance occurred on the previous Friday, and the Homecoming Parade will be held on October 15 at 5:00 p.m. Mr. Rizzo asked if students were really standing in the lunchroom. J. Smith and D. Donnell stated that there are seats, but students may not be able to sit with their friends do to the crowding. Mrs. Hackett commented that she was very pleased to see the Manchester High School marching band performing at the recent UCONN/Duke football game during half time, along with other area high schools. D. MANCHESTER
PTA COUNCIL REPORT Mrs. Hackett asked that the Town wide PTA calendar be compiled and updated for the website. She stated that the Board of Education has limitations in terms of what they are able to advocate for regarding referendums. This is why they affiliate themselves with a political action committee to work towards and campaign for the referendum. They are not allowed to use public resources to either advocate for or campaign against the referendum. She reported that a brochure would be available to the public as well. E. CONSENT
CALENDAR 1) Personnel Action Appointments Karen Choutka to be a Special Education Teacher at Keeney School. Ms. Choutka received her master's degree in Special Education at the Southern Connecticut State University and resides in Broad Brook. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (MA Step 6, $48,282). Jennifer DeRagon to be a Grade 4 Teacher at Bowers School. Mr. DeRagon received her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education at Boston College and resides in Enfield. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (BA Step 1, $37,528). Richard Fletcher to be a Music Teacher at Manchester High School. Mr. Fletcher received his doctorate's degree in Orchestra/Conducting at The Julliard School and resides in Cheshire. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (Doctorate Step 8, $60,540). Eileen Kuhn to be a .50 FTE Kindergarten Teacher at Bowers School. Ms. Kuhn received her bachelor's degree in Psychology at Eastern Connecticut State University and resides in Manchester. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (BA+30, Step 1, $40,035, prorated to her FTE). Leah Lourie to be an English Teacher at Manchester High School. Ms. Lourie received her bachelor's degree in English at Eastern Connecticut State University and resides in Manchester. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (BA Step 1, $37,528). Amanda Lister to be an English Teacher at Manchester High School. Ms. Lister received her bachelor's degree in English at the University of Connecticut and resides in Willington. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (BA Step 1, $37,528). Stacy Manfredi to be a 7/8 Math Teacher at Illing Middle School. Ms. Manfredi received her bachelor's degree in Math/Psychology at St. Joseph's College and resides in Windsor. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (BA Step 4, $41,875). Megan McCormick to be a Mathematics Teacher at Manchester High School. Ms. McCormick received her bachelor's degree in Chemistry Engineering at the University of Rhode Island and resides in Manchester. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (BA Step 1, $37,528). Michael Menefee to be a Social Studies Teacher at Illing Middle School. Mr. Menefee received his master's degree in Secondary Education at the University of Hartford and resides in Bloomfield. Approved effective August 31, 2004 (MA Step 1, $40,035, prorated to his date of hire). Brent Mikkelsen to be a Guidance Counselor at Manchester High School. Mr. Mikkelsen received his bachelor's degree in English/Psychology at Assumption College and resides in Vernon. Approved effective August 24, 2004 (BA+30 Step 2, $41,707, prorated to his date of hire). Catherine Pearson to be a Grade 1 Teacher at Bowers School. Ms. Pearson received her master's degree in Elementary Education at the University of New Haven and resides in Manchester. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (MA Step 1, $40,035). Beth Penney to be a Technology Education Teacher at Manchester High School. Ms. Penney received her bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering Technology/Mathematics at Roger Williams College and resides in Tolland. Approved effective August 23, 2004 (BA Step 5, $43,100). Resignations Leaves
of Absence 2) Appropriation
for Education Special Projects - $12,505 3) Appropriation
for Education Special Projects - $111,001 4) Increase
in Appropriation for Education Special Projects - $1000 5) Appropriation
for Education Special Projects - $190,640 6) Transfer of Fiscal Agent Status for Great Path Academy 7) Teacher Retirement/Board Contributions 8) After School Program Fees 9) Permission
to Apply for Education Special Projects MOTION: Rizzo/Edwards s.v. The Board of Education adopts items 1-7 and 9 listed on the Consent Calendar. (8/0/0) Mrs. Lok asked about the foreseeable impact on the students and families regarding the rise in cost for Cedar Street Station. She also asked about the status of having the Town assist with the cost. Ms. Womack stated charging more for the after school program will impact the families. She reported that they are hoping to secure money from local businesses to hopefully circumvent the deficit they foresee. They hope to have a grant available for families who are struggling and cannot pay the $20 per week per student. She stated that they have been able to accommodate almost 200 students; however, as the program is now, they will only be able to accommodate half of that number. Mrs. Lok asked about the status of the willingness on the Town's part to assist in the program. Ms. Womack stated they are looking for money to contribute towards this fund. She is currently working with a Board of Director's member. Additionally, she also has had conversations with the Board of Education regarding in-kind donations. She is hoping to secure funds from local businesses in Connecticut. Mrs. Lok asked if there would be problems with the continuation of the program if item was not voted on at this meeting. She is resistant to raising the fees for families who may opt to remove their child from the program. Ms. Womack stated that they were at 70% capacity, so there is still room. She feels that it is still very competitive, and they do not want to turn anyone away due to funds. She believes this is better than having no program at all. She hoped to get consent from the Board in order to secure funds from the community businesses. Mrs. Lok confirmed that approval of this item allows solicitation from local businesses. Ms. Womack stated that even with the rise in fees, it still is a great bargain for families to take part in. The program is structured and has both academic and recreational aspect to it. Mrs. Lok questioned if the increase in fee would have a positive impact on the program. Ms. Womack stated if would have a positive impact, but that the rise in cost may be difficult for some families. In the past, they have offered scholarships to those families. Her plan is to get the cooperation of local businesses and churches to adopt families. Mrs. Lok stated that she was still hesitant to vote on this item. Dr. Mistretta stated that fees still need to be raised in order to begin the program. The intent is to locate other funds so that discounts can be offered to those who need it. This would support enrollment in the program. She received an email from the Town Manager who stated there is some discussion about a $10,000 contribution from the Town. The Board is also looking at any in-kind services they could provide. They are also exploring the Title IV grant for additional funds. They will apply these on an as-needed basis. Ms. Womack stated they had the start-up money, and had money in reserve from the nominal fee they charged last year. This money, coupled with the fee, should get the program through to January. By then, they are hoping to get more support from local businesses. Mrs. O'Neill confirmed that 200 people were in the program last year. She asked if someone drops out of the program, if they would be replaced by someone waiting to get into the program. Ms. Womack stated that enrollment is ongoing. Mr. Rizzo asked why the enrollment number was reduced and the charges increased. Ms. Womack stated they were running the program with a half million dollars over three years, which is approximately just under $200,000 per year. There was money to provide quality staffing and outside vendors. This year, there will not be money outside activities and staff will be relied upon for the activities. Money that is being raised is just for salaries at this point. This is another reason that 200 children cannot be accommodated this year. She stated that if money is secured from the community, they might be able to open it up to more students. Mr. Edwards asked if there was an economy of scale in teacher to student ratio, and if it was at its maximum. Ms. Womack stated that if more students were put into the program, more staff would be needed. Mrs. Lok stated that she is 100% supportive of the program; however, she does not agree with the method. MOTION: Lok/Edwards s.v. That item E8 be removed from the Consent Calendar until at least the next meeting. (withdrawn) Mrs. Lok stated that she would like more information regarding this request, as she feels that there may be a family that cannot enroll their children based on the rise in cost. Ms. Womack stated she would do all she could do to help families. She stated that daycare is a very important issue, and that this program is also very important to them. She stated they are trying to address the needs of the families who cannot afford the cost. Mrs. Lok withdrew her first motion and asked the Item E8 be voted on separately. MOTION: Lok/Edwards s.v. The Board of Education approves item E8 on the Consent Calendar. (7/1-Lok/0) Mr. Edwards confirmed that it was a three year grant for approximately a half million dollars, and the hope was that it would be renewed for another three years, which did not happen. He believes the program is wonderful and needed, but that it was never his understanding that it would be a program that wouldn't be funded in some way by the parents involved. Ms. Womack stated that this was the intent. She reported that they would apply again for the grant next year. Mr. Edwards feels that while it is a big jump in one year, it is a necessity to keep the program going. He supports the idea to get community support until the program is self-sustaining. Mrs. O'Neill asked if the program would expand if the funding expands. She also asked for confirmation that this program is not all just fun, but has an academic component as well. Ms. Womack answered that the program would expand with more funding and that there is an academic component to it. F. SUPERINTENDENT'S
REPORT Mr. Bishop explained the district's response to the tragic death of Joshua Negron and how the school system worked closely with the Manchester Police Department and School Resource Officers. He stated that support was available at several school to address grieve counseling. The school system will be an active participant in the East Side Coalition within the community. J. Smith, Student Representative, on behalf of the Manchester student body, commended the efforts of the community, the Board of Education, the Police Department and support groups in town for dealing with the situation well, and for being there for students and community members. Dr. Mistretta stated that Mr. Epstein and Mr. Cadman were present to speak about the situation with the Barnard roof at Bennet Middle School. Mr. Pinzone, the interim Business Manager, was also available to answer questions. Mr. Epstein stated they were alerted that the roof had been leaking at the Barnard building at Bennet. Also called to the site was the building official's office, the Fire Marshall's office, the roofer, members of the Board of Education and administration, as well as the town and school staff. They walked through the building and found the roof had been leaking in the southwest corner. A portion of the third floor roof was saturated; the floor was a wet, as well as small portion down to the ground floor. They could not find an apparent leak. They checked the attic space, and the drain. They determined what had leaked happened the previous night, and was no longer leaking. They spent a good portion of the day examining the roof, clogging the drain and flooding the roof trying to duplicate what may have happened. The roof still did not leak. They hosed down the exterior of the building and found a couple openings in the masonry where it could have leaked. This was the only area they could find that was leaking. They caulked, as a temporary fix, any areas that were cracked. They examined the drain, and will drop a new drain into the building. They are in the process of hiring a masonry contractor to repoint the masonry eliminating any of the cracks where water may come through. The roof has not been accepted so far, and there still is an inspection that has to occur. There will also be a third party inspection of the roof system. The areas that were wet have been taken down and the school is safe. He stated that he could not project what would happen in the school, but as a joint effort, walkthroughs will occur in the building on a monthly basis to identify any issues before something may happen. Mrs. Lok asked Mr. Epstein if he foresees future problems based on the work that has been done. Mr. Epstein believes they have caulked the leaks. He mentioned that there are other areas that have not been reroofed, which conceivably could leak. He believes it is a safe facility and everyone is watching to make sure it is. Mrs. Lok believes the response regarding this incident was excellent. She feels that she has more confidence based on the most recent incident. She also addressed questions regarding the maintenance report dated July 28, 2004. She received a new and updated list, and expressed her satisfaction with the format of the list and what it shows. Mr. Pinzone clarified that there will be ongoing reports with completion dates and status of the issues. Regarding the roof, he confirmed what Mr. Epstein stated above, including the third party evaluation. Board and Town staff will make daily visual evaluations whenever inclement weather occurs, as well as weekly structural inspections. An additional third inspection by other town officials will be made twice monthly. These inspections include all of the buildings on the Bennet complex. The funding source of this corrective work will be handled through the Town's general fund, and not out of the operating budget of the Board of Education. They do not have a total cost estimate at this time. The masonry work alone will cost approximately $25,000 to $35,000, asbestos work will run $5,000, and these numbers do not include any interior damage correction or loss of equipment. The Town will initiate the purchase order and make payment to replace the two four inch drains, which will take place immediately. The corrective work will take approximately 6-8 weeks to complete. This work will not take place when students are in the building. He stated there was outstanding cooperation from the town and its employees to assist with this emergency. Mr. Epstein clarified that there will be visual reviews by the Town, and there will not be a structural engineer present. Mr. Pinzone agreed that it would be a visual inspection. Mrs. Lok asked if all the promise dates on the maintenance list have been met. Mr. Pinzone stated all of the promise dates have been met. They are working with the General Manager and Fire Marshall on one of the dates. Mr. Cadman stated there was one exception in that the tile in the locker rooms in the Cone Building would be done the following weekend. Mrs. Lok feels that the Board has been very lucky that up to this point, no one has gotten injured. She would like this list to appear on future agendas to report the status of each item to the Board. Mr. Edwards clarified that it is not known what leaked at the Barnard building. Mr. Epstein stated that only judgment calls have been made as to where it may have come from. He emphasized the drain system was removed and reinstalled. This was not the item that leaked. Mr. Pinzone stated that part of the charge of the third party consultant was to try and identify the problem. Mr. Edwards asked if any leak tests were performed after the initial work was completed, and before the rain storm that caused the flooding. Mr. Epstein stated that a leak test was not performed. Mr. Edwards asked if it is standard procedure to fix a roof and not test it. Mr. Epstein stated that it usually is not tested. He added that there is no way to duplicate an actual rainstorm. Mr. Edwards suggested that fire truck hoses might have been able to provide the force needed to duplicate a storm and test the roof. Mr. Epstein stated that wind and velocity needs to be taken into account during a storm, and flooding the roof does not necessarily duplicate a rainstorm. Mr. Edwards asked what equipment was used for the leak tests. Mr. Epstein stated a garden hose was used to flood the roof. Mr. Edwards asked what it would take to unquestionably fix the roof. Mr. Epstein stated that he does not feel the roof is the problem, but that the masonry is the problem. Mr. Edwards asked what it would take to unquestionably fix the leaking. He stated that his main concern is safety of students and staff within the building. Mr. Epstein stated that it is a 100-year-old building with a lot of issues. To seal the building, all masonry, roofs, windows and every part of the exterior would have to be addressed. Mr. Edwards asked what the cost of this would be. Mr. Epstein stated that he did not know the cost and he would not speculate. Mr. Edwards stated that he is frustrated that the problem was not identified ahead of time. He feels that a taxpayer would ask the same questions he just asked. Mr. Pinzone stated that part of the answer to the question relates to the age and condition of the building. He observed the building, and believes the exterior of the building is in need of considerable masonry work. He feels the cost would be hundreds of thousands of dollars, because the Barnard building is not unlike the other buildings in the Bennet complex. He feels that work that is being done is not a solution, but preventative work. Mrs. O'Neill mentioned the upcoming forecast of rain and asked if staff would be available in the building to see where the rain is coming in. She suggested inspecting the areas that did have problems. She suggested putting a priority list together and work out a plan with the town. Mr. Cadman stated that there would be people in the building in anticipation of the rainstorm. Mr. Pinzone stated that staff are assigned to the building on a second shift, so they would be in the building until 11:00 p.m. regardless of the weather. Mrs. Hackett agreed with the need to have some special crew to be on site during the rainstorm. She stated that she is thankful for the work and collaboration that has taken place. She asked the administration to invite Mr. Epstein and Mr. Cadman to future meetings for updated reports. Mrs. Lok asked for a response to the public comment regarding community tours of the Bennet complex. Dr. Mistretta stated that this currently is being reviewed by the Town's attorney. One of the concerns is that if the district needs to go forward with a lawsuit, the press cannot be in the building taking pictures. Because of this, tours cannot be allowed. However, should there become a time when tours can occur, they will be set up specifically when students are not in the building. She complimented the Bennet staff and administration during this incident. A contingency plan was put into action during the event, which moved students to other parts of the building. This resulted in overcrowding. Attorney Libby gave the enrollment report for the district. She stated October 1 enrollment are the official enrollment figures because the start of school still has a lot of activity with families moving, etc. In elementary, there are 3, 444 students, down by 97 students. Two of the schools, Nathan Hale and Waddell had small increases, the others had slight decreases. They will look at moving some teachers around to balance class size throughout the district. At Bennet, there are 708 students, down by 56 students. At Illing, there are 826 students, down by 53 students. The high school is up by 98 students for an enrollment of 2,278 students. A lot of teachers are concerned that their classes are large. She will meet with the principal and MEA President to discuss this matter. Only 1.4 teachers have been added at the high school. J. Smith, Student Representative, invited the Board to come to the high school to see how crowded the classrooms are. Mrs. Lok asked if there is a contractual obligation for teachers to have a certain number of students. Attorney Libby stated that at the secondary level, it is over contract to have 30 or more, except for singleton classes. The class size of 30 triggers investigation on how classes can be divided or students shifted. Additionally at the high school, when a teacher has more than 125 students, adjustments should be made. Mrs. Holmes asked if time is given for students to make class changes, etc. before adjustments are made. Attorney Libby stated teachers and administrators are very concerned about some of the class sizes, and the principal has directed the guidance department to quickly process the forms when a student drops a course and moves into another. Mrs. Holmes asked if there was a sense of where the extra students are coming from at the high school level. Attorney Libby stated that it was not due to retention. There is a very large freshmen class this year at 690 students. Grades 10 and 11 are in the mid-500's, and grade 12 is in the low 400's. Mrs. O'Neill referred to the new law regarding students dropping out of school, and asked if there was any data supporting the age of the students in the school. Attorney Libby stated she did not have the information, but would speak with administration at the high school to get a sense of the numbers. She believes the high number of grade 9 students contributes greatly to the high enrollment. Mr. Rizzo asked about the enrollments of grade 7 and 8 students. Attorney Libby stated there are 561 grade 8 students, 447 grade 7 students, and 498 grade 6 students. Mrs. Hackett asked for a moment of silence in memory of Josh Negron. 2. Supervisory
of Equity Dr. Brett briefly reviewed the district's Strategic Plan, which outlines the Mission Statement, the Strategic Goals and the Beliefs. She identified five of the nine beliefs that speak to equity: Every student deserves to learn in a school that is safe, supportive and welcoming to diversity and individual differences; Students of all abilities are capable of higher academic achievements; An excellent education leads to graduation with skills, knowledge and values that exemplify a successful and contributing citizen; We must fund our schools adequately and distribute funds equitably across schools and programs. We stated that Manchester Public Schools believes that equity should be addressed. The Mission Statement includes: to assure that students become responsible citizens; to encourage learning from birth through graduation; to create safe and inclusive schools; to commit to excellence in teaching and learning; to value each student's capacity for high educational achievement; and, to empower students by helping them attain the knowledge, skills and values needed for success. The Strategic Goals speak to: demonstrating accountability; proving equal access to resources; promoting family/community participation; developing student attitude, character and ownership; and, preparing children for school. The district must also take into account more federal and state controls as a result of legislation. This includes No Child Left Behind where local school districts must accept the challenge the law presents and attempts to make systemic changes aimed at improving the achievement of underperforming students. No Child Left Behind states that 95% of all students at every public school must participate in the high stakes state mastery tests. All students must score at least 57% in CMT reading proficiency, and 62% on CAPT, and 65% in CMT math proficiency, and 59% on CAPT. No Child Left Behind also identifies subgroups which are economically disadvantaged, students with disabilities, Blacks and Hispanics. She stated that Manchester Public Schools is accepting the challenge the law presents and is attempting to make systemic changes at improving the achievement of under-performing students to prevent federal and state intrusion and control. She also spoke about the K-12 Equity Programming and Closing the Achievement Gap. She stated that they are looking at equity differently and the purpose is to implement a systemic effort to improve student achievement and growth; and to promote understanding and sensitivity among students, staff, parents and the community. The responsibilities include supporting excellent teaching; to differentiate instruction; to work with an identified network of support teachers and new 1st and 2nd year teachers and others; to analyze data; and to research proven strategies to achieve proficiency targets. She commented that the equity supervisor addressed the new teachers during orientation. She believes the data will speak volumes on where the students are achieving and where they need to grow. She thanked the Board for identifying $53,000 toward resources aimed at equity K-12 programming. She outlined the roles and responsibilities of the Equity Director. There are three main areas that the Director will address: instruction; student support programs; and community relations. In terms of instruction, the Director will use data analysis; collaborate with literacy facilitators, math trainers, curriculum specialists and consultants; work closely with the Beginning Educator Support and Training (BEST) program; ensure a culturally inclusive curriculum; conduct professional development on differentiated instruction; explore alternative programs/services for students; continue with Efficacy programming and Capturing Kid's Hearts; work collaboratively with principals on School Improvement Plans; work collaboratively to ensure rigorous curriculum for all; and work collaboratively with the Coordinator, English Language Learners and the Director of Student Support Services. In terms of Student Support Services, the Director will coordinate Black College Tours; strengthen transitional programs between grades 5 and 6, 8 and 9; and assist in the development of alternatives to expulsions. Regarding community relations, the Director will recruit minority staff for all levels of staffing; and, serve as a liaison to the community. Dr. Mistretta stated that a great deal of time was dedicated to this topic this summer. She commented that Mrs. Kearney has made a great deal of progress as Principal at Bentley Alternative School. This year, she will be a Bentley for part of the day to ensure continued progress for that school. Some of the money is being used to support her ability to move out of the building every day for a period of time. Therefore, she will split her time on a daily basis between Principal and Equity Director. Mrs. O'Neill asked if new teachers are paired up with mentors and provided curriculum to ensure a smooth transition. Dr. Brett stated that all the new teachers have mentors, and there is an Induction Seminar Series held on a monthly basis on specific topics for new teachers. This is also an opportunity for them to come together to discuss issues. Mrs. O'Neill stated that she is concerned that some of the new teachers have not been exposed to the curriculum initially at the start of school. Dr. Brett stated that the principals give the curriculum to the new teachers, which comes out of her office. She holds meetings with coordinators of the different disciplines to ensure the curriculum is implemented. Mrs. O'Neill stated that since curriculum is left to the principals, it might be a good idea to unify it for equity. Dr. Brett stated that this is the plan, and that equity is across the board this year. Mrs. O'Neill asked if all new teachers of each discipline receive the same curriculum package. Dr. Brett confirmed this. Dr. Mistretta stated there are also Literacy Facilitators, Math Facilitators, Curriculum Specialists and Curriculum and Instructional Leaders. The Equity Director will interact with all of these people in order to spread the concept of equity throughout the district in an embedded way. The Principal should evaluate lesson plans to do classroom evaluation. Mrs. O'Neill restated her concern because there was such a great number of new staff that a consistent message is sent to them. Mrs. Kearney stated that she met with the new teachers the previous week. Questions asked of them included: are they feeling supported; and, are they getting the resources they need. She feels the Induction Seminars are very important as they meet with the new teachers on a bi-weekly basis to share their concerns privately or in a group. Mrs. O'Neill is concerned that new teachers may not know what resources they need. She asked if a formal system is in place for new teachers. Dr. Brett stated that this is a formalized process. Mr. Rizzo stated that he is happy to see that there is a focus on closing the achievement gap. He realizes the philosophy and direction put forth will stretch Mrs. Kearney quite thin, but states that he has every confidence that it will be pulled together. He asked for a job description of the particular things the Director will do. He sees this presentation as a beginning to this, and believes it will evolve as it moves forward. He asked that it be continually shared with the Board. Mr. Edwards feels this initiative is in alignment with other initiatives that are currently being pursued, such as data driven instruction and differentiated instruction. He asked how this item would be implemented in an equity perspective as opposed to a general perspective. Dr. Brett stated that time has to be taken in gathering data, examining subgroups, and understanding what the data means. It can then be put into practice through working with teachers and principals. Mr. Edwards asked that budget funds be reviewed. He stated that the Board allocated an additional $53,000 from the Board budget and the Board of Directors allocated $35,000. He confirmed that this was above and beyond what was already being done in terms of equity. He asked what the additional funds would be spent on. He asked for a "mini budget" of this program. Dr. Mistretta stated that some of the funds would be used for increasing another teacher's time at Bentley with administrative certification to serve as the principal when Ms. Kearney leaves the building. Secretarial support was also restored. For the most part, the Board of Education funding is designated towards personnel costs. The Board of Directors allocated $35,000 to the initiative, and those funds are being used for some resources, instructional support and direct funds to students to field trips. She stated she would provide the Board with an itemization of this. Mrs. Lok stated that it was a good report, and the very beginning of what she would like to hear about work on equity. She stated that it is important that the community understands what it means to Close the Achievement Gap. She feels it is very important that there are no misunderstandings regarding this issue. She believes it is structured to be able to make every student successful. She would like the Board to hear more in-depth information in the future. She feels it is important to stay on course and make everyone understand the purpose and the goal. Mrs. Hackett stated she had the opportunity to attend a summer meeting from which several of these ideas came about. She noted that in the past, equity was a standalone program. Because of her engagement with Bentley, there was not a lot of time to contribute to equity. She also did not believe the equity program had an adequate budget. She believes this program has to become the common fiber throughout the district. Other people throughout the district have been incorporated into the initiative to support it. Dr. Mistretta stated that future reports would be given to the Board. G. NEW
BUSINESS Mrs. Gejda presented the district wide Technology Plan V. She stated that this is a committee effort. The purpose of a district wide Technology Plan is to help in communicating with the community the district's philosophy and beliefs with regard to the use of technology. It allows the district to highlight the goals, and to create a system of organization and a timeline in order to make accomplishments. It also helps the district to meet state and federal regulations. She reviewed the philosophy and stated that a great deal of thought and effort has been placed into identifying the beliefs. With regard to the beliefs, the appropriate technologies are critical tools for all aspects of learning. Technology integrated instruction overcomes constraints of time, space and resources. Technology facilitates student assessment and access to technology after school hours is critical. She stated there have been four Technology Plans prior to this new one. She highlighted some of the accomplishments of each previous plan. In Tech Plan I, accomplishments include computer labs and professional development. In Tech Plan II, accomplishments include a town-wide network serving schools, municipal buildings and libraries, and LANS in schools. In Tech Plan III, accomplishments include technology integration into lessons, classroom access to online resources, and using the tech plan to secure grant funds. In Tech Plan IV, accomplishments include the town fiber optic project, the point of service program, library automation, all classrooms wired, networked printers and servers, distance learning and Channel 16 projects, a security system, revised curricula and policies, and software management systems being adopted. She presented two short video clips to demonstrate the accomplishments. The goals for Tech Plan V include: curriculum and instruction, professional development, infrastructure, access, efficiency, community collaboration and evaluation. The focus in curriculum and instruction is to integrate technology into the classroom; ensure that all curricula reference student technology standards; have teachers post technology-rich lessons on-line, and increase use of assistive technology. The focus in professional development is to develop the technology competencies of teachers and administrators; identify a tool to assess the competencies; employ a needs assessment to inform decisions for professional development; and, investigate online learning opportunities for the staff. In terms of infrastructure, they propose to increase server space, increase security, and have adequate electrical services. In terms of access, they will ensure acquisition and replacement plans, increase wireless technologies, and to continue to improve assistive technologies. She stated Manchester recently became part of the CT Education Network, which will provide increased distance learning, video conferencing, and streaming video, improve non-computer based technology and remote access. In the area of efficiency, it will provide software updates and student management softwares. Mr. McCoy stated that this is an aggressive but doable plan. It was done in collaboration with a number of town departments. It is an expression of where Manchester is headed. Mrs. Gejda stated that in terms of budget implications, curriculum and instruction would be covered in Title I, IIA and IID grants; professional development would be covered in Title I, IIA and IID grants; infrastructure would be covered in building renovations and shared expenses with the town; access and efficiency, would be covered in BOE funds and shared expenses with the town. This plan supports the District Strategic Plan, the Building School Improvement Plans, teacher certification, the technology graduation requirement and student achievement. Mr. Rizzo stated that every initiative has some component of professional development. He is more and more concerned about the lack of ability to fund professional development. There is a stated goal of one percent of the budget to go towards professional development, and it is not even close to happening. He asked how this would impact the plan. Mrs. Gejda stated No Child Left Behind puts an emphasis on how to qualify teachers in the classroom, part of which is technology use. Title II has been more focused on improving teacher quality. The district uses these funds to make the biggest impact on the district. A separate section of the entitlement is designated for professional development. They try to use the train the trainer model in order to get the most from the funds. It is an effort to try to create a building level critical mass to improve teacher competencies. They survey teachers to find out what the greatest needs are. Mr. Rizzo asked how much professional development is enough. Mrs. Gejda stated that technology should be taught across all of the disciplines. She stated that workshops occur throughout the system. Mr. Rizzo stated that he is concerned about the professional development budget, and he would like to see a focus on the budget for more funding in this area. Mrs. Lok asked if there is any sense of the students who have access to computer technology in their homes versus the students who do not, and what impact this has on their educational program. Mrs. Gejda stated that one school did a detailed survey to ask for this information. She believes it will be a very large project, as siblings need to be considered. She stated she would get this information for a future meeting. She stated that there is service available to students in Town. They are looking into the possibility of getting laptops for student use. Mrs. Lok asked if there are times during the day that students have access to computers to do exploring, research and independent projects. Mrs. Gejda stated that students are using technology with the oversight of a teacher with a specific goal in mind. Mr. Edwards commended Ms. Gejda on the entire report. He likes that it is broken down by goals supported by countless activities and timelines. He is concerned about the technology expenditures the Board has not made. He asked how the Board stands in terms of aging equipment. Mrs. Gejda stated she could have a more complete answer at budget time. She stated that the tech support in the district is outstanding. Memory and upgrades have been purchased, but computers are aging. Mr. Edwards asked what is done with technology that is outdated. He asked if there is an opportunity for a volunteer group to refurbish the equipment and make it available to students who may not have computers. Mrs. Gejda stated the district has received donations. When there are obsolete machines, there is a surplus inventory that is auctioned. She will look into his suggestion in making this technology available to students in their homes. Mrs. Hackett asked for a motion to postpone H. Old Business and I. Committee Reports to the next meeting. MOTION: Lok/Rizzo s.v. The Board of Education postpones H. Old Business and I. Committee Reports to the next meeting. (8/0/0) H. OLD
BUSINESS I. COMMITTEE
REPORTS J. COMMUNICATIONS K. PUBLIC
COMMENTS 2. Nicole Smith, Student at Manchester High School. She spoke about the overcrowding issue at the high school and feels that it is not a terrible issue, although there are classes students cannot take due to lack of space. Additionally, students may not be able to go up to levels they want because of no room in the class. L. ITEMS
FOR FUTURE AGENDAS MOTION: Edwards/Rizzo s.v. The Board of Education adjourned at 11:00 p.m. |
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